Unit works as advertised. I fish 80% of the time in the Ocean or the Gulf. I try to protect it from the salt spray and wash it every time I return. I am not able to comment on the durability for saltwater applaction as I have only had it for 3 months. This is a great addition to the Riptide I-Pilot. I have found it to be most useful when fighting a fish and you can not free your hand to change direction using the I-Pilot. Don't leave home without it!